Nintendo Switch: An Unprecedented Journey
The Nintendo Switch has officially claimed the title of the best-selling console in Nintendo’s history, eclipsing the sales figures of the DS. As of December 31, 2025, the Switch has recorded 155.37 million units sold, surpassing the DS, which achieved 154.02 million units sold between 2004 and 2011. This milestone was reached during a festive surge that enabled Nintendo to sell 7.01 million units of the Switch 2, establishing it as the “quickest-selling dedicated video platform released by Nintendo thus far.”
The Emergence of the Nintendo Switch
Although the original Nintendo Switch has been succeeded by the Switch 2, it continues to perform well, thanks to its competitive pricing. In the third quarter of fiscal 2026, 1.36 million units were sold, showcasing its lasting appeal. The Switch is now just 5.27 million units shy of Sony’s PS2, the top-selling console in history. To outpace the PS2, Nintendo would need to maintain Switch sales for a few more years.
The Triumph of Switch 2
The Switch 2 has emerged as a tremendous sales success. With remarkable holiday sales that exceeded projections, Nintendo is on course to fulfill its 19 million sales target for fiscal 2026, concluding on March 31. The company has already outstripped its initial sales estimate of 15 million consoles set earlier in 2025.
Game Sales and Economic Performance
Nintendo’s game sales have also been strong, featuring titles such as Mario Kart World, which has sold 14 million units, and Donkey Kong Bananza, which reached 4.25 million units since the launch of the Switch 2. This success contributed to Nintendo’s Q3 revenue of 803.32 billion yen ($5.2 billion), marking an 86 percent rise over the previous year, although slightly below expectations. Profits amounted to 159.93 billion yen ($1.03 billion), representing a 20 percent increase from the same time last year.
Upcoming Game Releases
The future success of Nintendo may depend on its forthcoming game releases. Two highly anticipated titles are Mario Tennis Fever, set to release on February 12, and Pokemon Pokopia, debuting in March. These games are anticipated to drive additional sales and sustain the momentum of the Switch 2.
Conclusion
Nintendo’s Switch has firmly established its position in the annals of gaming history by becoming the company’s best-selling console. With the robust sales of the Switch 2 and a promising slate of upcoming games, Nintendo is well-positioned to sustain its success. The company’s ability to innovate and win over gamers worldwide continues to exemplify its lasting legacy.
Q&A
Q: How did the Nintendo Switch eclipse the DS in sales?
A: The Switch surpassed the DS in sales through a mix of factors, such as its groundbreaking hybrid design, an impressive game library, and sustained popularity even after the debut of the Switch 2.
Q: What attributes make the Switch 2 the quickest-selling Nintendo console?
A: The Switch 2’s designation as the quickest-selling Nintendo console can be ascribed to its robust holiday sales, which surpassed expectations and swiftly achieved sales milestones.
Q: How close is the Switch to overtaking the PS2 in sales?
A: The Switch is currently 5.27 million units behind the PS2, the best-selling console ever. Continued sales over the following years may allow it to surpass the PS2.
Q: Which games are among the top sellers for the Switch 2?
A: Top-selling games for the Switch 2 include Mario Kart World, with 14 million units sold, and Donkey Kong Bananza, with 4.25 million units sold.
Q: What forthcoming games are anticipated to enhance Nintendo’s sales?
A: Upcoming titles expected to elevate sales include Mario Tennis Fever, launching on February 12, and Pokemon Pokopia, set to arrive in March.
Q: How has the financial performance of Nintendo been influenced by the Switch and Switch 2?
A: Nintendo’s financial metrics have shown strength, with Q3 sales hitting 803.32 billion yen ($5.2 billion), an increase of 86 percent compared to the prior year, and profits totaling 159.93 billion yen ($1.03 billion), a 20 percent rise from the same period last year.
